Isle of May Boat Trips

The boat trip out to Isle of May leaves from Anstruther harbour, and it's one of those rare days out where you genuinely don't know what you'll see when you arrive. The island itself is a Scottish Wildlife Trust reserve, and depending on the season, you're looking at puffins, razorbills, guillemots, and seals hauling out on the rocks. Summer is peak time - May through August - when the seabirds are nesting and the place feels properly alive.

The crossing takes about an hour each way, which is long enough to feel like a proper voyage but short enough that fidgety kids won't lose the plot entirely. Once you're there, you get maybe two to three hours on the island. There's an old lighthouse, some ruins, and genuinely wild coastline. The paths are basic, so wear decent shoes - it gets muddy and rocky.

This works brilliantly if you're based at one of the nearby caravan parks like Silverdyke or Kilrenny Mill, both within walking distance of Anstruther's harbour. You could easily combine it with a stroll around the fishing village itself, which has proper character and a few decent spots for fish and chips on the way back.

Who's it for? Birdwatchers will be in heaven. Families with kids old enough to handle a boat ride and an island walk get a lot from it. History buffs appreciate the lighthouse and medieval ruins. The seasick or impatient, though - they might find the crossing tedious.

Book ahead. Trips depend on weather and tides, so check locally before you commit.